authoritarian
- 01 C1 Advanced
adj.demanding that people obey completely and not allowing them any freedom.
adj.favouring or enforcing strict obedience to authority, especially that of the government, at the expense of personal freedom.
Simple“The country was ruled by an authoritarian government for over thirty years.”
In context“The transition from an authoritarian regime to a representative democracy proved to be a volatile process for the developing nation.”
UsageCommonly used to describe political systems, regimes, or leadership styles.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
adj.behaving like a person in power and expecting others to follow your orders without question.
adj.exhibiting a personality trait characterized by the desire to impose one's will on others through perceived or actual status.
Simple“Her authoritarian manner made it difficult for her staff to suggest new ideas.”
In context“The manager's authoritarian approach to project oversight stifled the creative autonomy of the design team.”
UsageOften describes a person's tone, manner, or parenting style.
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
n.a person who believes in or uses strict authority to control others.
n.an individual who advocates for or practices strict obedience to authority.
Simple“As a strict authoritarian, the headteacher rarely listened to the students' complaints.”
In context“Political theorists often distinguish between a traditional conservative and a true authoritarian regarding the role of the state in private life.”
SynonymsautocratdisciplinarianAntonyms
“Azad, a popular online debate program, has tackled topics that push the limits of Iran’s authoritarian system.”
“Analysts do not believe the Taliban are likely to moderate their position in the near future and point to the continuing authority of Hibatullah Akhundzada, the reclusive and authoritarian cleric leader.”
From authority + -arian, circa 1880.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.